They may be a jumble of insights and stereotypes, but it's certainly worth checking out these lesser-recognized films
By Michael Musto
Everyone knows about the Oscar-type classics dealing in LGBT-related topics, from Philadelphia to Milk to The Kids Are All Right and beyond, but it’s also important to check out the smaller, less-honored films—the curios, trifles, marvelous misfires, and fascinating visits to our planet. They can provide surprising amounts of enlightenment, or at least entertainment, and are definitely worth a look to realize how our society has viewed us through the years. Having seen them all, I can recommend the following 11 gem-ettes:
THE FOX (1967)
Lesbians Sandy Dennis and Anne Heywood commingle on a faraway farm in this atmospheric film based on D.H. Lawrence novella. It’s really fascinating for quite a while, but then Keir Dullea comes around and we learn that all the two dames needed all along was a man. Oy. Awkward stuff, but hey, that was the 1960s.
THE GAY DECEIVERS (1969)
In another perhaps unwelcome premise, two swingin’ guys dodge the draft by pretending to be gay. But while the resulting film is a bit stereotype-filled, it’s kind of sweet and a reflection of its time, and Michael Greer is fun as their flaming gay landlord.
STRANGER BY THE LAKE (2014)
Dark desires and self-destructive tendencies pop up in this riveting French film about a guy who’s attracted to the wrong Mr. Right in a public sex place, and loving it. Not all great films have to show us to be blazing heroes.
BEAUTIFUL THING (1996)
Two neighboring working-class boys hit it off, as Mama Cass wails on the soundtrack. Make your own kind of music indeed. This is such a lilting, lovely coming-out film—one of the best ever.
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